Leaders lead by example, transforming organizations globally through their vision, integrity, and dedication to purposeful leadership. By integrating business objectives with ethical principles, they nurture cultures of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. These leaders inspire and empower others, sparking waves of positive change. Through coaching, conscious leadership, and talent development, they shape the next generation of leaders, equipping them to drive impactful, enduring change within their organizations and communities. One such leader is Magda Enciso Cortes.

Magda Enciso Cortes is the visionary CEO of Conscious Business Center International (CBC), dedicated to advancing conscious leadership and transforming the business landscape. With over 25 years of experience, she has blended her banking, digital transformation, and leadership expertise to create sustainable impact. Magda’s journey began at Banco Davivienda, one of Colombia’s largest banks, where she spent two decades leading key digital transformation initiatives. Her innovative strategies grew the bank’s client base and reshaped its business approach through technology.

Below is an excerpt of Magda Enciso Cortes’ exclusive interaction with The Global Women Leader magazine.

Take us through the formative years of your life. What were some key early influences in life that shaped you as an individual?

The formative years of my life were deeply influenced by my grandfather, a remarkable leader whose wisdom went far beyond numbers and metrics. One of the most profound lessons he imparted to me was that true success is measured not by wealth or titles but by the positive impact you leave on others. This perspective shaped my approach to leadership and life, reminding me to value people over profits.

Growing up in a traditional Colombian family, my grandfather’s nurturing and insightful nature made him a father figure as well. He embodied the power of listening, supporting, and encouraging others to reach their potential. His belief in the importance of uplifting those around us inspired my passion for creating spaces where people can thrive. These early lessons from him became the foundation of my leadership style. Today, I strive to lead with empathy, fostering environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to shine.

Give us a glimpse of your professional journey over the years. What have been some of the most crucial junctures throughout this journey?

I began my professional career quite young at the Davivienda Bank, the second-largest bank in Colombia, with a clear goal of becoming the Commercial Vice President. Over nearly 20 years, I led transformative initiatives across various departments, from setting up a corporate trading desk in the financial division to driving the bank’s digital transformation by building a robust sales network through digital channels. These advancements significantly impacted the bank's client portfolio, and I gained extensive experience in sales, marketing, operations, technology, and finance.

However, after two decades of success, 2015 became a turning point in my life. A personal and professional crisis prompted me to leave the bank and pursue a deeper purpose. I realized my calling to become an entrepreneur and to make a broader global impact. Fred Kofman’s invitation to join the Conscious Business Center International was a pivotal moment. I found my vision of cultivating conscious leadership come to life through designing leadership and business coaching programs. Today, through the Conscious Business Center, we’ve empowered over 30,000 professionals worldwide to reach their potential and create positive change. This journey has brought me immense pride, as I see our programs inspire more conscious leaders shaping the world’s largest organizations.

Please introduce us to Conscious Business Center. What is the underlying idea behind the company and its key areas of expertise?

Conscious Business Center International (CBC) is a global initiative that blends business success with a profound commitment to human development and conscious leadership. At CBC, we believe in the power of businesses to drive not just economic growth but positive societal change. Our core expertise lies in ‘Cultural Transformation' programs, which help organizations evolve into agile, purpose-driven entities with a focus on ethical and sustainable principles. We specialize in Conscious Leadership and Business Coaching, empowering leaders to cultivate environments that support holistic well-being. By integrating innovative tools and technology, we ensure conscious leadership is accessible, impactful, and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, fostering growth that benefits both businesses and communities globally.

Tell us about the key roles and responsibilities you shoulder as a CEO of Conscious Business Center. What are your focus areas in terms of driving growth for the company?

As the CEO of Conscious Business Center, my mission is to lead the organization toward sustainable growth while championing human flourishing and conscious leadership. My primary responsibility is to ensure that all operations align with our core values, not just achieving financial success but also operating with ethics and a focus on innovation. Inspired by Fred Kofman’s philosophy, we prioritize values-based approach in everything we do. I oversee global strategies, lead and empower our team of 500 coaches and 14 core members, and foster a culture where each individual can become the best version of themselves. Innovation and technology are key focus areas, ensuring our services remain cutting-edge and relevant. Additionally, I am committed to talent development, nurturing an organizational culture that promotes excellence and continuous learning. Driving CBC’s growth involves expanding our international presence and consolidating our impact in regions like Latin America while exploring new markets. We’re known for our leadership and cultural transformation programs, and I am dedicated to further advancing these efforts. Ultimately, my goal is to promote a model of conscious leadership that not only delivers financial success but prioritizes the holistic well-being of people.

Throw some light on the major challenges you encounter in your current role. How do you overcome the said roadblocks?

One of the biggest challenges I face as CEO of Conscious Business Center is introducing conscious leadership in a world that often prioritizes immediacy and quick results. This requires more than strategy - it demands a steadfast belief in our values and the ability to inspire others to see beyond short-term gains. I overcome these roadblocks by leading by example, showing that sustainable success can be achieved without compromising ethics or human well-being. By aligning business growth with a higher purpose, I ensure that our mission stays intact even in the face of adversity, driving us forward with resilience and purpose.

In your opinion what have been the biggest ‘wins’ that you have achieved so far in your professional journey? What has been your ‘success mantra’ as a leader?

One of my greatest victories has been transforming challenges into opportunities for growth, particularly during the 2020 crisis. Leading with a stoic mindset helped me face adversity with calm determination, always keeping a focus on the bigger picture. My success mantra is simple: The only thing within our control is how we respond. Rooted in stoic philosophy, this guiding principle has empowered me through tough decisions, reminding me that while I cannot control circumstances, I can control my reactions. A quote by Epictetus sums it up: It’s not what happens, but how we interpret it. This resilience defines my leadership.

How do you think the global leadership coaching landscape will evolve in the coming years? Which industry trends will have the most significant impact?

The global leadership coaching landscape is poised for significant change, with technology playing a central role in its evolution. In the coming years, we’ll see a rise in demand for conscious leaders - those who prioritize both financial outcomes and the well-being of their teams and society. Key trends include the integration of AI and big data into coaching, enabling personalized, real-time solutions for leaders. However, human connection and awareness will remain vital. Additionally, coaching will become more globalized, requiring intercultural sensitivity as leadership practices adapt to diverse cultures. This blend of technology and human insight will define the future of leadership coaching.

Message For Aspiring Women Leaders/Entrepreneurs:

The path to leadership is one of self-discovery and strength. Challenges test our resolve but offer opportunities for growth and transformation. My advice: embrace authenticity, trust your inner voice, and align decisions with your purpose. I focus on nurturing my energy and soul through practices like meditation and yoga, which help me stay grounded in the present and aligned with my core values. Leadership isn’t just about guiding others; it’s about leading by example. Cultivate empathy, strength, and resilience. Balance personal well-being with work, and be a guiding light, building a legacy that reflects your essence and contribution to the world.

Magda Enciso Cortes, CEO, Conscious Business Center

Magda Enciso Cortes, CEO of Conscious Business Center International, blends extensive banking expertise with a commitment to conscious leadership. Educated at the University of Los Andes and Externado University of Colombia, she has received multiple Bolívar Group Innovation Awards. Her achievements include pioneering CRM projects and driving significant growth in banking channels.